Getting ready to move
DEATH and divorce, moving house are the most stressful things in life. But with a little planning and our guide you can take the strain out of your move.
Before you start
- There’s no point moving junk, so have a good clear-out.
- Start collecting boxes or contact a firm which can provide boxes, bubblewrap etc.
- Buy marker pens, tape, labels etc.
- Be sure to book the time off work.
A few weeks before
- Tell movers about anything that won’t fit down the stairs or through the door.
- Double check they know the time you want them to arrive and that they have directions to your new home.
- Check your insurance. Anything you pack yourself might not be covered by the removal firm’s insurance.
- Organise parking at both properties.
- Re-direct your mail.
- Organise care kids and pets on moving day.
- Send out your new contact details and ask family and friends for any help you might need.
The week before
- Pay outstanding bills on your current property.
- Cancel services such as paper delivery, window cleaner, milkman.
- Arrange for the exchange of keys.
- Start cleaning your house.
- Start an essentials box. Put tools, tea, coffee, instant milk and a kettle, paper plates and cutlery, a torch, scissors, soap, towel, loo paper, paracetemol, lightbulbs, tea towels, bin-bags and cleaning equipment in a brightly coloured, plastic box so they are all to hand on the day of the move. This must travel in your car.
The day before
- Pack an overnight bag.
- Put all move-related paperwork, and important phone numbers, in your overnight bag.
- Sort and label keys for the new owner.
- Pack snacks, drinks and toys if the kids are with you on the day of the move.
- Defrost the freezer.
- Fill the car with petrol.
- Check the weather forecast. If rain’s likely, buy polythene to put down to protect carpets.
On the day
- Disconnect appliances and read meters.
- Make sure your vacuum cleaner is accessible.
- On arrival at new property, read the meters and check utilities are all working.
- Make beds as soon as they’re assembled.
- Order a takeaway for the evening. And put a bottle of wine in the fridge.
- Don’t start pulling boxes open until the furniture is in place otherwise things get lost.